The 2025 State Teachers of the Year have a remarkable 927 years of combined experience inspiring students to excel in their classroom and beyond. Using unique and extraordinary teaching strategies, these educators are nurturing students’ academic growth and wellbeing to the highest standards in their profession.
The Council of Chief State School Officers (CCSSO) is proud to run the National Teacher of the Year Program to support exceptional educators in the states and territories we represent. Each year, states and territories select their teacher of the year through their own process and CCSSO celebrates them and provides a one-of-a-kind year of professional learning.
The 2025 cohort comprises 56 educators in teaching roles, prekindergarten through high school. This year’s representatives include 13 educators teaching at elementary schools, 12 teaching at middle schools, 27 teaching at high schools and four teaching multiple grade levels. They are experienced in a range of subjects, from social studies and math to drama, agriculture, fire science and career technical education. They have taught, on average, for more than 17 years.
These exceptional educators go above and beyond to make a difference in their school communities. They additionally take leadership opportunities in organizations that enhance both student experience and professional development for teachers.
The National Teacher of the Year Selection Committee, composed of individuals representing 14 national education organizations, will select four finalists based on the teachers’ applications. The finalists will be announced in January 2025 and later interview with the Selection Committee in Washington, D.C. CCSSO will announce the 2025 National Teacher of the Year this spring.
